A hydraulic clutch relies on pressurized fluid to amplify/transmit force, so whenever an air bubble gets into a closed hydraulic system, it can dramatically decrease the system’s ability to pressurize the fluid. That, in turn, can prevent the clutch from being able to fully disengage when you’re shifting gears. Note: Hydraulic clutch systems are very similar
While it may be easy to see why a manual-transmission vehicle needs a clutch, understanding exactly how it works is something else entirely. But the gang at Learn Engineering is wicked-smart, and they put together a cool video that will help take the mystery out of how a clutch’s various components work in harmony to
Few things bring smiles to the faces of hot rod enthusiasts like rowing through the gears of a manual-equipped car. Many folks still prefer the simple joy of stick shift driving over the hands-free convenience of the automatic transmission. And nothing’s going to change their minds—except for maybe a cranky clutch. Of course, most people won’t let a
Banging gears with a manual transmission is fun—if your clutch is up to the abuse, that is. When it’s time to replace or upgrade your clutch, these two dozen tried and true clutch, pressure plate, and flywheel tech tips and tricks will come in mighty handy. Here’s the collection: Play Ball If your car
[portfolio_slideshow id=20449] There are two ways you can release a clutch on a car or truck—with mechanical linkage or via hydraulics. In this story, we’ll explore the hydraulic clutch. Slave Cylinders vs. Hydraulic Bearings There are two basic types of hydraulic clutches: slave cylinder and release bearing. In a slave cylinder system, a hydraulic cylinder is
Rowing gears with a manual transmission is lots of fun, especially in a lightweight car with way too much horsepower. But when the gears start crunching and the clutch pedal sinks to the floor and you’re stuck at the line or a stoplight, a stick shift suddenly isn’t so much fun anymore. Clutch problems can
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